Staff picks: Saturday's state football quarterfinals

And on the third day of football state tournament quarterfinal action, Class 5A gets its turn. Some of the finest teams from the metro area and beyond mix it up. That's not to overlook some great games in the other classes, too.

David says: A Class 5A Prep Bowl rematch. Defending champion Owatonna boasts a potent offense and a defense that's hasn't allowed more than seven points in a game since early October. Owatonna 35, St. Thomas Academy 20

Jim says: So why are these two playing in the quarterfinals? It should be, at minimum, a game played at U.S. Bank Stadium. The Cadets are legitimate state title contenders, but this is a terrible matchup for them. They don't have enough offense to keep up with Owatonna. Owatonna 31, St. Thomas Academy 21

David says: Elk River has enjoyed three consecutive seasons of U.S. Bank Stadium appearances. Moorhead hasn't been to state since 2015. Experience and a strong rushing attack give the Elks the nod. Elk River 30, Moorhead 13

Jim says: Elk River's ball-control offense puts a lot of pressure on opponents to make the most of possessions. And the Elks defense is playing its best football of the season. Elk River 38, Moorhead 26

David says: Good for Mahtomedi, rallying from a 2-7 regular season to one victory shy of U.S. Bank Stadium. A tough Chaska defense ensures the Zephyrs get no closer. Chaska 27, Mahtomedi 7

Jim says: Playing outdoors in the cold makes Chaska's defense seem even more intimidating. I can't see how Mahtomedi hopes to generate any significant offensive momentum against the grinding Hawks. Chaska 30, Mahtomedi 10

Jim says: I'm a firm believer in the benefits of experience and a strong running game at this time of year. Coon Rapids has a legitimate shot, but circumstances have me leaning toward the team that has both. Spring Lake Park 27, Coon Rapids 21

David says: The Wolfpack, led by dazzling quarterback/defensive back Jalen Suggs, took Benilde-St. Margaret's best punches last week. The Wolfpack, already so skilled, won't be outmuscled, either. SMB 31, Chisago Lakes 14

Jim says: Beating a Benilde-St. Margaret's team that looked poised to win last week is an indication that SMB is serious about defending its Class 4A crown. The Wolfpack simply has too many playmakers. SMB 40, Chisago Lakes 18

David says: Blue Earth's playmakers, quarterback Gavin Storbeck and running back Koby Nagel, are underdogs against an athletic, active Polars defense led by end Quientrail Jamison-Travis. Minneapolis North 28, Blue Earth 21